The Princess and the Plumber in: Bittersweet Tidings
Ample sighed the sigh of a woman who had endured weeks of festivities, drama, and relatives.
"The last few weeks have been incredible. What with the holidays, Clarence and Elswyth's wedding, and the... engagement of our daughter to the oaf."
King Public Parking nodded solemnly, as though "the oaf" were an official diplomatic title.
"That reminds me," Ample continued, "whether in the spirit of Christmas or a Christian one, I am pleading with you to give a present to Houston and his bride, Stephanie. Do you realize she has already given birth to their baby? I even got to hold him. It made me wish things had been different-where we would have had more children."
"So," the king said, leaning back, "it is a baby boy?"
"Yes, and he looks just like Houston."
The king gasped. "Then the first thing I must do is send them my condolences."
He chuckled proudly at his own joke.
"Be serious " Ample swatted his arm. "They were married in Los Farthing without any family. I'm sure it cost them a fortune. Please do the right thing... for me?"
She placed both hands on his cheeks and gazed at him with the kind of adoring expression that could melt steel-or at least a stubborn monarch.
The king's internal monologue immediately dissolved into mush.
Whenever she does this, my insides melt. She is such a beautiful woman who has remained by my side after all I've put her through. I am grateful and deeply in love with her.
He cleared his throat.
"Ahem... I will do as you ask. But first, I will have Olaf pay them a visit to ascertain what they need."
"Excellent. He has a good head and heart for such things."
"I agree. What else is on your mind?"
"Truthfully, I am worn out."
"After all the activity lately, no doubt."
"That is why I find myself looking forward to my trip with Anastasia. Thank you again for granting me permission."
King Parking chuckled. "No need to thank me again. I believe you showed me your appreciation sufficiently three times that evening."
Ample blushed a delicate shade of rose.
"Well, I still have a sufficient amount of gratitude for when you are in the mood."
She grinned at him with unmistakable suggestion.
The king's eyebrows shot up.
"In that case, why do we not adjourn the court early?"
Even in fairy tales, life is not always a fairy tale. Not everyone is living 'Happily Ever After' at all times. Continue the adventures of the Princess and the Plumber to see what life holds for them-and for the poor souls who must endure them.
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